Stanley Glacier Trail - Kootenay National Park

• 8.98 km
  Distance
  
• 348.44 m
  Elevation Gain
  
• 1573.89 m
  Trail Head Elevation
  
• 1920.53 m
  Maximum Elevation
  
• 390.85 m
  Cumulative Elevation
  
• 5-7 hour(s)
  Average Time
  

Trail Description

You’ve probably passed the sign for Stanley Glacier countless times on Highway 93 on your trips to and from Calgary. It’s worth taking a day to hike up to the foot of the glacier. The reward is a spectacular view of both the glacier and the area’s mountains and valleys. After crossing Stanley Creek, the trail heads up in a series of switchbacks through the area burned out by the 2003 forest fires. The initial elevation gain is about 150 metres. The trail then wanders through a meadow and crosses the creek again. There’s some evidence here of another forest fire, caused by lightning, that hit the area in 1968. Just when you think this is going to be an easy “walk in the Park,” the trail veers up sharply across rock slides from the north wall of the canyon. You can see the glacier from almost any vantage point on the hike, but as you get closer you will spot half a dozen mini-waterfalls cascading down the cliffs on the south wall. The end of the maintained trail is marked by a Parks Canada sign. To truly appreciate the area however, catch your breath and then continue your ascent on either side of the valley to a little bluff and a small meadow at the toe of the glacier. On your way up, you will notice several streams that literally come bubbling out of the rocks to eventually become part of Stanley Creek. That last kilometre is a bit of slog, a series of switchbacks up a loose scree slope. The payoff, a great spot at the top of the bluff to stop for lunch with the glacier at your back and a panoramic view of mountain peaks at your feet, literally a “postcard picture” in every direction.

Directions to Trail Head

No need for a high clearance vehicle to get to this trail head. It's highway driving all the way. Set your odometer to zero at the traffic lights on Highway 93/95 at the Invermere junction. Head north for 13 km to Radium. Turn right at the 4 way stop sign. Stop at the Park gates and buy a pass if necessary. At 103 km, turn right into the parking area.

Trail Surface

Variable outdoor terrain

Trail Season

Early summer to early fall

Points of Interest

Trail Features